Oct. 15 IRS Deadline Still in Effect

The Internal Revenue Service reminded taxpayers that the October 15 deadline remains in effect for people who requested a six-month extension to file their tax return.

While the current government shutdown has shuttered many offices and turned off many services, it “does not affect the federal tax law, and all taxpayers should continue to meet their tax obligations as normal,” the IRS said in a statement.

Over 12 million people filed for automatic six-month extensions earlier in 2013, most of whom will have to file by the October 15 deadline. Some groups do have more time, the IRS noted, including members of the military and others serving in Afghanistan or other combat zones, as well as people in parts of Colorado affected by severe weather, flooding, landslides and mudslides.

The service encouraged taxpayers to e-file their returns, but said that it would accept returns both electronically or on paper, and accept and process payments accompanying either type of return. It will not be able to issue refunds, however, until normal government operations resume.